What are the differences between essential oils and fixed oils?
Natural oils enrich our lives by being used in many areas such as skin care, health, aromatherapy and cosmetics. However, there is a distinction between these oils as fixed oils and essential oils. Both types of oils are obtained from plant sources, but the parts they are obtained from and their areas of use are different from each other.
What are fixed oils and where are they used?
Fixed oils are natural oils obtained from plant seeds, fruit seeds or parts such as nuts by methods such as cold pressing. Fixed oils, which are usually dense in structure, can be in liquid or sometimes solid form. Fixed oils, which mostly consist of triglyceride compounds, are effective in providing moisture balance and nourishment of the skin. Fixed oils obtained from plants such as sweet almond, black cumin and safflower are among the beneficial herbal oils that support skin and hair health.
Fixed oils moisturize the skin and give it a soft texture. They are known for their anti-dryness and nourishing effects in skin care. These oils are also very popular in hair care; they can help prevent split ends and strengthen hair. They are also often preferred in massage therapies because they provide lubrication to the skin and provide a relaxing experience. This versatile use of fixed oils makes them indispensable in a wide range of areas from cosmetics to the pharmaceutical sector.
What are Essential Oils and Where are They Used?
Essential oils, also known as natural essential oils , are oils with strong aromas obtained from the leaves, flowers, bark or roots of plants. These oils are produced by concentrating plant extracts and have a very strong concentration. Essential oils are usually used in incenses, diffusers or diluted with carrier oils.
Essential oils, which are widely preferred in aromatherapy, can offer calming, energizing or antiseptic effects due to their natural components. For example, lavender oil is preferred for its relaxing properties to reduce stress and support sleep patterns, while peppermint oil can be used to create an energetic mood. These properties of essential oils make them ideal for improving mood and providing sensory relaxation.
Properties of Fixed Oils and Essential Oils
One of the main differences between fixed and volatile oils is the plant parts they are obtained from. Fixed oils are mostly obtained from seeds and kernels, while essential oils are obtained from the aromatic parts of plants, namely flowers or leaves. Fixed oils are suitable for direct use on the skin and are known for their moisturizing and softening effects, while essential oils are not applied directly to the skin due to their high concentrations, they must be diluted.
In addition, while essential oil benefits include significant effects on the skin, hair and sensory relaxation, fixed oils play a more moisturizing and nourishing role for the skin. Essential oils used in aromatherapy provide natural relaxation by being spread into the environment with a censer or diffuser, while fixed oils act as carrier oils, helping to apply essential oils safely to the skin.
Different Areas of Use of Fixed and Essential Oils
It has a wide range of uses, from skin care to culinary use, from medicine to cosmetics. For example, sweet almond oil is an ideal option for moisturizing the skin, while black seed oil is known for its soothing properties against inflammations on the skin. Fixed oils can be used as make-up removers, as well as effective results in hair care or massage oils.
When aromatic oils and their properties are considered, the areas of use of essential oils are slightly different. These oils, which are frequently used in aromatherapy to provide relaxation, stress reduction and vitality, are also applied by mixing with carrier oils in massage therapy. Oils such as lavender, mint and tea tree provide effective results in skin cleansing with their antibacterial and antiseptic properties. Essential oils are also preferred for their strong aromas for natural solutions such as home cleaning and air freshening.
Things to Consider When Choosing Fixed Oil and Essential Oil
When buying fixed or essential oils, it is important to choose natural, additive-free and certified products to maintain quality. When it comes to fixed oils, organic and cold-pressed oils are considered top quality. Products with natural ingredients, such as fixed oils, support skin health while also creating a protective barrier against environmental effects.
In essential oils, purity and original content are important for a proper aromatherapy experience. Natural essential oil options offered by reliable brands, free of chemical additives, maximize the therapeutic effects of the oils. These oils should be stored in dark bottles and should not be exposed to direct sunlight or high heat.
Most Popular Fixed and Essential Oils
Among the most popular beneficial vegetable oils , fixed oils such as black cumin, sweet almond, sea buckthorn and pomegranate seed stand out. These oils are frequently preferred in skin and hair care, and fixed oils have the ability to provide long-term moisturizing and protection.
Among the essential oils, lavender, mint, lemon and rosemary oil are widely used in aromatherapy and personal care. While lavender oil stands out with its soothing effect, mint and rosemary oils stand out with their energizing properties. Lemon oil is an ideal option for both cleaning and skin care with its antiseptic and revitalizing effects.
You can benefit from the different properties of fixed oils and essential oils in your skin care or aromatherapy experiences. Both types of oils support your health and quality of life with their natural essences and rich content. Only essential oils can cause skin irritation on their own. Therefore, they should definitely be diluted with a fixed/carrier oil. By choosing the right oil, you can meet the needs of your skin and benefit from the power of natural aromas.
